When you are teaching your teen how to write, remember this quote by Gene Fowler:

“Writing is easy. All you do is stare at a blank sheet of paper until drops of blood form on your forehead.”Isn’t that encouraging? JSeriously though, remember that writing is a tough task so be patient and cheer your teen on with words of support.We’ve provided you with some writing curriculum suggestions as well as online class opportunities. (scroll down to the writing section).

If your 8th grader takes a few high school level courses, you may show these courses and credits on his high school transcript.Keep in mind that only high school level courses should be listed on the transcript not all 8th grade courses.HSLDA members may contact us for a sample transcript showing high school credits earned in the 8th grade.

For parents who will be visiting college campuses with your child as you are involved in the “college search,” Amtrak is offering a special. Wherever Amtrak trains run, one parent of each prospective college student can ride free when traveling together to check out colleges and universities. To qualify, go to www.campusvisit.com/amtrak. You must book your tickets in advance.

Internet4Classrooms is a website offering free tutorials for many computer applications including Word, Excel, and Powerpoint among others.If you are looking for help in teaching your high schooler computer skills, then this would be a great tool to use.

As you may know, the SAT test includes a section in which students must write an essay. You may view sample essays receiving both high and low scores. The College Board website also provides information regarding how the essays are scored and tips for writing high-scoring essays

If you would like a guidebook to use as you function as a guidance counselor for your homeschool teen, Walking Through the College Admission Process by Rick Horne is a helpful book. It includes worksheets and leads you step by step through the entire process from choosing a college to assessing motives and readiness for college. Written specifically for private Christian school students, but homeschool parents and teens will find the information extremely helpful.